Interview by Meghan Killimade
Thanks so much for chatting with us, Will! Looking through our archives – Wailing City contributor, Corrine Jensen, actually spoke with you back in 2011 when your previous band, Barefoot Truth, was touring. How have things evolved for you since the band’s hiatus and the emphasis has been on your solo work?
I would say the emphasis on touring has remained the same. The industry has definitely evolved a lot and I feel it has become much harder for Independent artists. However, having built a grassroots following with Barefoot it was helpful in having a blue print to follow. Connecting with and empowering the fan base is the best way to have a sustainable career.
For our readers that may not be familiar – tell us a little bit about the type of music you’re creating and how you got started in music?
I started my career singing in the Baptist Church. I do not associate with any one religion or domination, though I do think that there lies a deeply spiritual aspect to my sound. I play many different instruments and mold together a sound that’s been called "FolkTronica" or "Future Folk", because I like to blend electronic elements with traditional instrumentation.
What are some bands/musicians that have influenced you or that you listen to for motivation or inspiration?
John butler, Sylvan Esso, Fat Freddys drop and a beat boxer named Wing have been heavy in rotation recently. Basically anyone pushing boundaries musically or offering real originality is exciting to me.
Your most recent album ‘The Wild Unknown’ was released in April – talk a little bit about the writing/recording process for this project and what the inspiration was behind the music?
Most of the album was written in a cabin in Vermont. I’ve been doing more of these remote writing/recording sessions with producer Jeff Martin from Colorado. It’s been a fresh approach to go into a studio with nothing and see what happens musically. I think lyrical I’ve stayed pretty true to who I am; offering my perspective of the state of the world and a desire to do good or help people find light in times of darkness.
Tell us about the “Kind Folk” fan community – how did it come about and what are some things that Kind Folk focuses on?
The community grew out of a desire to build a fan base that connected through the music, but did more than just go to shows. The music is rooted in Kindness and so we encourage or help organize community service events in many of the towns or cities where I am touring either before or after the show.
The community grew out of a desire to build a fan base that connected through the music, but did more than just go to shows. The music is rooted in Kindness and so we encourage or help organize community service events in many of the towns or cities where I am touring either before or after the show.
You’re currently wrapping up a fall tour – how have the shows been and what are some of your favorite places/moments on this run?
Many of the West Coast markets are showing exciting growth. We played a beautiful outdoor show under the Giant Sequoia trees in Tahoe and a sold out venue in Portland Oregon. My last three Northeast shows also sold out, so there feels like a strong current happening right now with people craving the connection and high vibration of my shows. I’m happy and proud to be riding that current with them!
Many of the West Coast markets are showing exciting growth. We played a beautiful outdoor show under the Giant Sequoia trees in Tahoe and a sold out venue in Portland Oregon. My last three Northeast shows also sold out, so there feels like a strong current happening right now with people craving the connection and high vibration of my shows. I’m happy and proud to be riding that current with them!
You’re once again collaborating with Beer’d Brewing Co to present the Snow Moon Festival, which will be at the Stonington Velvet Mill on Saturday December 27! What inspired this festival and what can folks expect?
I love the idea of a winter festival to bring folks together during the darkest month of the year. I think the holidays can be a very isolating time for a lot of people so a chance to connect feels essential. The festival is going to be epic. Two of my favorite national touring friends Ryan Montbleau and Hayley Jane will be performing as well as local friends Rivers and Patrick. Lots of collaborations can be expected. The mill has some incredible food including Masa, Whitecrest eatery and Dock Nine restaurant. And what’s a great meal without award winning local beverage to go along! We’re stoked to have a select run of Kindfolk Pilsner a collaboration with Beer'd Brewery back on tap!
I love the idea of a winter festival to bring folks together during the darkest month of the year. I think the holidays can be a very isolating time for a lot of people so a chance to connect feels essential. The festival is going to be epic. Two of my favorite national touring friends Ryan Montbleau and Hayley Jane will be performing as well as local friends Rivers and Patrick. Lots of collaborations can be expected. The mill has some incredible food including Masa, Whitecrest eatery and Dock Nine restaurant. And what’s a great meal without award winning local beverage to go along! We’re stoked to have a select run of Kindfolk Pilsner a collaboration with Beer'd Brewery back on tap!
How important do you think it is for folks to support local bands/musicians and what do you think the best way is for people to get involved?
I think people often take for granted or just don’t even realize how much music affects us. It triggers those feelings and emotions that make us human. With the value of streaming bringing songwriters to our knees it’s absolutely imperative to buy tickets to a show. To keep those creative beings creating.
I think people often take for granted or just don’t even realize how much music affects us. It triggers those feelings and emotions that make us human. With the value of streaming bringing songwriters to our knees it’s absolutely imperative to buy tickets to a show. To keep those creative beings creating.
What’s next for you? More touring? Recording?
I’m feeling so inspired to create right now. Having two young children has really made me more motivated and passionate to share my craft. I’m halfway through another album and planning a big tour starting in late March.
FOLLOW:
https://www.willevans.com
https://www.facebook.com/willevansmusic
https://www.instagram.com/willevansmusic/
https://www.youtube.com/user/MegaWillEvans
Kind Folk: Official Will Evans Fan Group
CATCH THE SHOW:
22 Bayview Avenue - Stonington
"Snow Moon Festival"
5-10pm / All ages
w/ Ryan Montbleau
Hayley Jane
Rivers & Patrick
Snow Moon Festival Tickets
LISTEN: